Local stroke survivors across the area have been using art as therapy to communicate their ‘lost words.’
The group of artists, who have taken a City of Bath College community learning course, currently have their work on display at the Central Library.
The ‘Stroke of Genius’ exhibition features more than 100 watercolours, oils, collages and photos by artists from several counties.
The eight artists from The Bath Stroke Association say the exhibition has allowed them to personally express themselves rather than relying on others to speak for them. Their art work depicts their own thoughts and experiences.
The exhibitors attended a 10-week community learning course to be taught about mixed-medium art and how to prepare their work for the exhibition.
It was the first time The Stroke Association had worked with City of Bath College on an exhibition, and similar events are already being planned.
A stroke is an attack on the brain which can take away people’s ability to speak, move and many of the things they previously took for granted.
College Development Worker Iona Gibbons said participating in artwork had been relaxing for the learners and helped to ease their frustration of not always being able to communicate.
She said: “The course had as much of a health benefit as it did a skills benefit.
“The learners really enjoyed using art as a type of therapy to improve their communication. It really helped them to have a focus and go in to another world where they were in control.”
Iona added: “Just being part of a group activity was also very sociable for them; they worked together and felt included.”
The opening night of the ‘Stroke of Genius’ art exhibition was attended by dignitaries including Bath MP Don Foster, Bath Mayor Andrew Furse and Bath and North East Somerset Council chairman Rob Appleyard.
The exhibition continues until Friday, 19th April. It is open daily from 10am to 4pm and entry is free-of-charge.
